Oscar fever at bookies as patriotic punters back Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan in a scene from Lady Bird, which could secure her first Academy awardAP

Bookmakers have slashed the odds on Saoirse Ronan landing her first Oscar after bets from patriotic punters left them facing a six-figure payout.

The Irish actress, 27, is in contention to win her first Academy Award for her critically acclaimed lead performance in Lady Bird, having previously had nominations for her roles in Atonement and Brooklyn.

Bookies in Ireland said customers were increasingly optimistic about the star’s chances at the awards in Hollywood in March.

Paddy Power has reduced the odds on her winning an Academy Award from 7/1 to 3/1, while the odds on a double for Ronan to win best actress and the picture to be crowned best movie are 9/1.